A row has erupted over plans to slash the number of magistrates courts in North Yorkshire, including those at Whitby.

A row has erupted over plans to slash the number of magistrates courts in North Yorkshire, including those at Whitby.

Strong opposition is being voiced from county and local councillors over proposals which could see four magistrates courts axed if approved.

The move is by the North Yorkshire Magistrates Courts Committee which wants to streamline magistrates courts countywide in an efficiency and economy drive.

County councillors are being asked for their views before any proposals are implemented.

In a letter to Paul Bradley, the county justices chief executive, the County Council says "local justice should be seen to be administered locally so it can command local respect and support".

Councillors believe plans to close the courthouse in Whitby along with those further afield at Pickering, Richmond and Selby could cause great difficulties for victims or witnesses of local crimes.

They say people would have to endure substantial increases in travel times to Scarborough and costs in attending court when cases are dealt with.

Whitby town councillor Cath Ingledow said: "This angers me - it is a vital part of our community and should not be taken away.

"Whitby has had a magistrates court for decades."

County executive member Murray Naylor said: "The great benefit of having local courts is they are presided over by local magistrates who are familiar with local areas, the people who live in them and how they operate.

"Local services should be delivered locally even if that is at an additional cost in rural areas."

Mr Bradley, for the NYMCS, said: "Outlying courts are very expensive to maintain and we need a clear long-term future plan for our court buildings, including their efficiency and cost of maintenance."

He said no decision has yet been taken and the matter will be discussed by the committee later this month.